WASHINGTON, D.C. -- A handful of tech-savvy senators are tackling the growing problem of spyware with a proposed law that would make it harder for sites to inflict the invasive programs on unwitting users, and easier for the recipients to remove them.

The Software Principles Yielding Better Levels of Consumer Knowledge (SPYBLOCK) Act would "give consumers control over the programs that are downloaded onto their computers," says cosponsor Barbara Boxer (D-California). The measure was introduced Thursday by Boxer and Senators Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) and Conrad Burns (R-Montana).

The bill tackles three aspects of spyware. It imposes new rules that would make it more difficult for companies to slip software onto users' systems surreptitiously; require easy directions and options for removal; and prohibit harmful spyware

Read the rest of the article. I'm too tired to comment on it right now. _________________Former Microsoft MVP 2005-2009, Consumer Security
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"The bill tackles three aspects of spyware. It imposes new rules that would make it more difficult for companies to slip software onto users' systems surreptitiously; require easy directions and options for removal; and prohibit harmful spyware"

This is exactly the typical pansy solution I'd expect from the Government. Why not just make it illegal, period? Why tell them OK you can invade people's computers but only if you follow these rules and tell them how to remove you. Isn't all spyware considered harmful if it's stealing your information and feeding it back without your approval? What's the definition of non-harmful spyware here?

First, most of the harmful and invasive spyware comes in from overseas servers and the way ads are presented generally give a US advertiser a legal out from either civil or criminal liability and server operators in Russia and elsewhere are beyond US law.

Secondly, if such a law is anything like other Congressional attempts to regulate software rights, it will end up a DMCA-like mess that gives Microsoft, RIAA or a Hollywood studio the right to spy on your activities. Why? Because lobbyists will insist on protections for 'Digital Rights Management' and other TCPA related provisions.

I'm going to read it now. This was posted at SWI._________________Former Microsoft MVP 2005-2009, Consumer Security
Please do not PM or Email me for personal support. Post in the Forums instead and we will all learn.